Opportunity
The New Bedford Whaling Museum was aiming to expand its campus by an additional 20,000 square feet. The $30 - $35 million project would enhance the museum’s ability to serve constituents, with expanded galleries, community spaces, and program areas that would help illustrate New Bedford’s history. But first, the museum team had to actually raise the money—and as many development professionals know, there’s a virtuous cycle in fundraising that they would have to initiate.
Insight
The Manton Foundation understands the importance of nonprofits not just meeting their goals, but expanding their possibilities. When working with organizations, the trustees also aim to learn more about the organization’s needs and serve as an accelerant rather than a roadblock. As a grantee stated, “Some foundations are set up to figure out how to say no, but Manton feels like they are set up to hear requests.” That’s particularly true when it comes to education and community advancement, key goals of the New Bedford Whaling Museum.
